Brain Teaser #84: Ancient Laurasian Formula & Numerical Sequences

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around an encoded formula and numerical sequences attributed to an ancient Laurasian civilization. Participants explore the implications of the formula, potential numerical interpretations, and the identification of sequences such as Fibonacci numbers, squares, and triangular numbers, while considering the encoding scheme and its consistency.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that the formula involves Euler's identity and that the sequences may represent Fibonacci numbers, with claims that certain letters correspond to specific numerical values in base 16.
  • Others propose that the slash (/) represents zero in the notation, while various letters correspond to other digits, with some participants arguing about the accuracy of these assignments.
  • A later reply questions the consistency of the decoding scheme, suggesting that there may be errors in the interpretations presented by others.
  • One participant mentions that the last sequence could represent squares, while another suggests that the sequences might also include triangular numbers.
  • There is a discussion about the potential for additional clues in the symbols used, with some participants expressing uncertainty about the implications of these clues.
  • Several participants express frustration with the complexity of the puzzle and the encoding, with some suggesting that it may be overly complicated.
  • One participant offers a guess regarding a diacritical mark that should be added to the letter 'o', while others share their own interpretations and guesses without reaching a consensus.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally do not reach a consensus on the decoding of the sequences or the correct interpretation of the formula. Multiple competing views remain, with ongoing debates about the accuracy of the proposed numerical assignments and the implications of the encoded information.

Contextual Notes

There are indications of missing assumptions and unresolved mathematical steps in the decoding process. Some participants note potential inconsistencies in the sequences and the encoding scheme, which may affect the overall interpretation.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in puzzles, numerical sequences, ancient civilizations, and encoding schemes may find this discussion engaging.

  • #31
gnome said:
Do the "prime powers of 2" have some particular significance?
As noted, there are primes missing, so they do not yield all of the prime powers of 2.
 
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  • #32
As noted, there are primes missing, so they do not yield all of the prime powers of 2.
Even the sequence of all integers employs "in part" the numbers included in this mapping. Your wording describes a sequence that includes numbers in addition to those generated by the mapping. Did you mean it to be interpreted differently?
 
  • #33
davilla said:
Name the sequence generated employing, in part, a mapping of h -> to the first sequence in the problem.
What I mean is, find the significance of the first sequence. To that end, I have provided a formula that will prove useful, without giving too much away.